Thursday, April 9, 2009
Wade in the Water
This interpretation of the song Wade in the Water clearly demonstrates many aspects of black dance through the performance. Such elements included are the flow of the dancers and the motion in which they move. Also, the fact the dancers often move in unison while also digging for an individual demonstration shows another aspect of black dance. The aesthetic of cool is clearly present here as the dancers strive to move in the simplest way possible despite the evident manner of how complicated their movements are.
Wade in the Water Blog
The clip from Alvin Ailey's Dance Troupe "Wade in the Water" was an excellent example and performance of the elements of Black dance. In the dance, the dancers all danced to the rhythm of the song and the meaning. I really liked it when the blue sheets around the dancers made them look like they were really wading in water, along with their fluid body movements. I think the "aesthetic of cool" was present here, where the dancers all made it looks so easy and natural, that it seemed in a sense sort of cool. I also noticed a lot of the dancers played off of each other and would dance as if one. I thought this also was reminent of the characteristics of Black dance. I noticed that there was a lot of percussive elements in the dance, like the background music at points and how the dancers danced according to how the music sounded. The dancers did a good job of communicating the message that the song was trying to give through dance. It really gave the song more life to see it being acted out. The clip was very interesting and entertaining to watch because it really showed many of the things we talk about in class through the actual dance.
"Wade in the Water"
I actually had the honor of seeing the Alvin Ailey Dance Troupe back in high school and it was definitely an unforgetable experience so when I saw we had to do a blog and watch the clip I was especially excited. This clip was an example of elements of black dance because as discussed before just like music, dance moves derive from Africa and that is illustrated in this clip by some of the moves that dancers did like the swift movements of their bodies, a lot of hip movement and thrusts were in corporated in the dance as well as the movement of their arms and legs with the rhythm or beat of the music. This dance in particulary reminded me or praise dancing which is most commonly found in AME and baptist practices of praise and worship. As Thompson mentions "african traditional cults are danced faiths, worship converted into sound and motion , performed in open air..." which is definitely contributed into this dance number. The dancers were wearing clothing similar to old fashioned baptism ceremonies that can still be found in the south but still not as common as it was during and after slavery. The dancers moved with and at times became the water which added to the telling of the story performed by the dancers.
Wade in the Water
Jacqui Malone states, "...black dance is a source of energy, joy, and inspiration; a spiritual antidote to oppression; and a way to lighten work, teach social values, and strengthen institutions. It also teaches the unity of mind and body and regenerates mental and physical power." I believe that Alvin Ailey's "Wade in the Water" dance demonstrates these characteristics very well. All of the dancers display large rhythmic movements by swaying their hips, kicking their legs, and reaching their arms. I love how their movements help tell a story. It is almost as if they are moving through the water or at some parts becoming the water. I also enjoyed the use of the blue and white clothes; the colors gave a warm, yet happy feeling. The song is about slaves escaping for freedom, and the dancers really showed a lot of energy and determination in reaching that goal: freedom. Overall, I think it was a great performance.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Blog
I thought the clip was great. It expressed and interpritated African dance extremely well. Bringing in the time period of slavery, the dancing incorporated many unique aspects such as joy, individual and group oriented dancing, being in rhythm with the beat and showed a lot of emotion.
I liked the Wade in the Water clip by Alvin Ailey's dance group. This was the first time that I actually watched and paid attention to this type of dance. But as I watched I began to notice how interesting this form of dance was. As the music played the dancers would somewhat dance in sync with each other; but the dancers individually would dance have their own slighty variation of the dance moves. Because I know the meaning or message of the actual song Wade in the Water I was able to follow and kind of understand the moves corresponding to the song. In the dance moves just as I saw indicidualism, I also noticed "aesthetic of cool," like each dancer would flow with the music and from each move to the next. As I watched the clip I also picked up on how the dance moves had a lot of traditional African characteristics in each dance move individually. Overall I found this to be an interesting African American art form that I, myself have observed before.
Weekly Blog
To me the wade in the water dance had a couple of the elements described by Thompson and Malone. There was some call and response in the beginning of the dance and there was also singing and dancing at the same time. Another element the wade in the water dance had was the percussion. There was more instruments in the background than dancers. In all the dance had many elements of Black dance and was very beautiful.
Wade in the Water Blog
After viewing Alvin Ailey Dance Troupe's version of Wade in the Water, I heard and saw a number of elements of Black music and dance as described by Thompson and Malone. One such was the dominance of the percussive concept of the performance. A clear example of this was heard during the first 1:40 of the song as the background vocals during this time were sharp and distinctly percussive instead of smoothly transitioning to each note. Also prominently featured during the first 1:40 of the song was the element of multiple meter. As numerous percussive instruments gradually joined the song, each seemed to play at its own tempo. Thus, as described by Thompson, this part of the song featured the simultaneous execution of several time signatures. In addition, the element of polymeter was also seen throughout the video as the dancers often chose different parts of their bodies to emphasize at the same time. As this occurred, the dancers twisted and contorted their bodies which often resulted in angularity. As described by Malone, such angulated bodies and gestures are an important part of African-American culture. Furthermore, this dance often featured a great deal of asymmetry. For example, although the dancers may have been moving slowly at one point, this often abruptly and unexpectedly changed to more rapid and vigorous movements. In the end, this video also featured apart dancing. Although the dancers often moved in unison, they also frequently did their own thing which, as described by Thompson, is to better ensure a dialogue between movement and sound.
Blog for Week 11
I think "Wade in the Water" serves as an excellent example of Black dance for multiple reasons. Not only does it incorporate aspects of African culture through the drums used in the music and through the use of different movement styles, such as contractions, but it also serves as a spiritual antidote to oppression. Alvin Ailey's version of "Wade in the Water" combines different spirituals as well, such as "Didn't my Lord Deliver Daniel." The dance symbolizes different aspects of religion as well, like baptism. Malone says that African American dance evinces a celebration of life and I think this is very true for this piece. Alvin Ailey does a wonderful job capturing the happiness and celebration of the African American experience through his movement. One example of this I noticed was toward the end of the piece when the man waving a flag danced off the stage. His movement reminded me of celebrations in church when someone had been "taken over" by the holy spirit. I really enjoyed this piece and think its such a good example of black culture and black dance.
"Wade in the Water" video clip Blog
Alvin Ailey Dance Troupe's "Wade in the Water" youtube video clip contained many different examples of Black dance that both Thompson and Malone had discussed. The dance started out as a very elegant ballet performance and as the music got progressively more intense so did the movements of the dancers. The movements were very big and distinct, encorporating movement in all parts of the body at all times. The message being portrayed was very spiritual and relgions towards the issue of slavery. The clothing and the fact that the dancers were not wearing shoes helped portray the idea of Black dance. This was like an interpretive dance to portray and express without words, the story behing the song, "Wade in the Water."
wade in the water
Alvin Ailey's performance combined influences from several aspects of African American Culture. The song wade in the water is a significant story of slavery. The historical significance of the performance stretches back to African roots. The percussive layering in the music resembled that of ancient African music. The expressive dance has religious roots that tie to praise dance. The full body incorporation demonstrates the ability to express narrative through dance. As discussed in class on Tuesday, the performance had many religious connections. The group moved together in unison similar to a church choir. Also, there is an evident male leader in the performance which symbolizes the preacher and main illustrator of the narrative. The sophisticated attire of the dancers also illustrate the economic progress of African Americans.
"Wade In The Water" Blog
After watching the performance of "Wade In The Water", performed by the Alvin Ailey Dance Troupe I recognized many forms of black dance, and some that are described by Thompson and Malone. In the beginning of the performance it reminded me of almost a ballet. The dancers moved slow and they were mostly synchronized and very elegant looking. But as the "Wade In The Water" song came on I thought the dancers started acting out a story in the form of a dance. I thought as the music changed to more upbeat and fast, the dancers did the same. It was like a burst of energy from the ballet part of the dance to the story part of the performance. I thought that it was really interesting how they used props in their performance, such as the umbrella the women were holding, the blue sheet for the water, and the long flag like poles that the men held. This made the dance more story like and their was no need for words. The reading says that black dance is a type of freedom and I think that the "Wade In The Water" performers show that very well. The men flowed very well with the women and made it interesting to watch their bodies move together throughout the dance.
-Mara H.
-Mara H.
Wade in the Water Blog
Alvin Ailey's Dance Troupe's performance was majoratively interpretive in telling/expressing the story of which "Wade in the Water" speaks. The movements, while mostly elegan, become abrupt and aggressive in times of necessary emphasis in regards to the struggle for freedom. Like the culture of the song itself, many of the dances were in sync with songs aimed at portraying a more religious or spiritual message to the audience. The movements and issues being expressed are a throwback to tradition with many movements and most of the music reflecting an African tradition carried over and acclamated into an American culture. The entire performance had segments where focus would be set only on one or two dancers as a means not only to highlight the skillful movement but also for a chance to reveal the "swagger" (ie: elements of cool) within the work/performance.
Wade in the Water blog
While watching the clip of the Alvin Ailey Dance Troupe I could see many forms of black dance according to Thompson and Malone. I thought the dance began as though the performers were moving through the forest, maybe escaping slavery, just like the song talks about, and I could see the "aesthetic of cool," in the movements. As the dance and song went on you could see their energy and movement become faster and you can relate the movements to the words. They were so smooth they told the story in a way that you did not need the words, to understand. I think they had a really unique and beautiful performance that made the song come to life with the costume colors, and props, to give a vivid picture. The dancers flowed together and worked together in many ways to help contribute to the overall aesthetic of the performance. As we talked about yesterday in class, this was a more harmonic soft performance, not as percussive as others we have seen.
The song Wade in the Water, has such a deep meaning and this performance helps give a picture of the emotion and meaning behind the words.
The song Wade in the Water, has such a deep meaning and this performance helps give a picture of the emotion and meaning behind the words.
"Wade in the Water" Blog
I began the blog by finding what I thought were the most important points of definition of black dance in the two essays. Thompson says, "the Negro is an heir to an aesthetic of the cool and [white people] are not. It is cool to sweeten hurt with song and motion; it is hot to concentrate upon the pain." It also has a "ration between the senses - feel touch earth, ears hear drumming, eyes study gesture." The dancers are barefoot and there is a constantly changing percussive element to this interpretation of the song. They also take full advantage of their body's movement capabilities. The lyrics serve as the moral function of the music.
According to Malone, "black dance is a source of energy, joy, and inspiration." It has an element of freedom of expression that makes it unique. The black aesthetic utilizes the entire body and continuum of movement possibilities to appeal to the "visual and aural senses". In this version of "Wade in the Water" the dance troupe accomplishes this through their use of colors (white and blue) as well as their mixture of elegant and percussive movements.
The dancers also use a form of showcasing where the dancer with the umbrella is backed up by the other two dancers or the dancer at the end the
male dancer with the stick is also showcased by the other performers.
"Wade in the Water" Blog
The Alvin Ailey Dance Troupe's version on "Water In The Water" demonstrates various examples of black dance within it. Most glaringly, we can see the "aesthetic of cool" represented through the slow and "water-like" movements of the dancers. They also use blue fabric to represent the water. The dancers are also displaying emotion that is not always in sync with the others around them, expressing freedom and their own interpretation of the song. The dancers also convey a lot of energy through their movements that seems to be enjoyable. Despite the fact that the lyrics represent the struggle that blacks went through during slavery, the dancers take that and create all of these dramatic and expressive poses within their dance and make it visually appealing. They take this song, which can be seen as a reminder of the hurt that blacks felt and make it beautiful and pleasing to watch; however still telling a story through their strong movements.
"Wade in the Water" Blog
The dancing done in the clip shows a certain flow of movement in correlation to the music. There is a moment where the dancers are dancing with a call and response rhythm. A male and female dancer were doing the same movements and turned to go behind the other dancers so they could echo the movements that were just done. That practice of call and response happens for about three dance sections. There is a more precise moment of call and response when the female dancer is holding the umbrella with one hand and waving her hand over a dancer with the other hand. When she waves her hand over the dancer they move up and down as to be baptized in the water by the woman. There is also an example of dance of derision where the dancers are re-enacting the idea of wading in the water. Their slow rhythmic movement gives the illusion that they are swimming or moving through water. Malone calls the interaction of the song and dance done by the dancers “dancing the song.” The dancers have an “ecstasy of motion” through their free flowing movement while using the swaying of their heads to make the movement more dramatic. The performance overall takes the “aesthetic of cool” and brings it to life through the dancers calculated and rhythmic steps while making it look effortless.
Wade in the Water Dance
I think the Alvin Ailey Dance Troupe did a wonderful job of performing "Wade in the Water" but in the form of dancing. The first type of dance that came to my mind was a more African type of dancing. In African dancing, the whole dance seems to tell a story instead of just putting random moves together. Within this performance, the story was to the song "Wade in the Water" and during the song, the dancers would transform into different scenes and they would include props to help tell their story. It seems like acting but there are no words being spoken by the dancers, just movements and rhythm. I could see the inspiration that these dancers had and the energy that they put into this performance. They really wanted to depict the song in every aspect and get their point across to the audience by just moving their body around in different ways. I thought it was a really great and powerful performance and I would like to see more work from this group!
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Blog Week 11- Dance
I really enjoyed the clip of the Alvin Ailey Dance Troupe and their rendition of Wade in the Water. There are several elements of black dance in this clip. The first one that comes to my mind is the energy, joy and inspiration created by the troupe when they dance. Wade in the Water has special meaning to African/Americans back to the days of slavery. The lyrics contained coded messages about relief and survival. These are relayed through the story of the dancers, the angular poses, expressive arms and style. We can also see the "aesthetic of the cool." The dancers show tremedous control and effortless movement as their bodies "speak" the narrative and meanings of water. The use of the blue fabric is especially interesting as representing the water in many ways. This creates not only a visually pleasing effect but is also a device that creates drama and mystery. Each movement of the dancers body creates emotion and their "apart dancing" is very sifnificant to black dance. While some of the time the dancing appear to be harmonious, other times the dancers appear extremely liberated to improvise their own interpretation and emotion into their dancing.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Professor Whaley Post: Dance, Dance, Dance
The film Stomp the Yard and America's Next Best Dance Crew has really put dance back on the map as an important form. On this show, we see people from a variety of backgrounds showing their dance skill, and many of the dances shown have their roots in Black culture.
This week we will discuss the traditions and innovations in Black dance. In a variety of forms, including ballet, tap, disco, stepping, hip-hop dance, folk/traditional African dance, modern dance, breaking, house dance -- to specific dances like the ring shout, cake walk, moonwalk, hully gully, and electric slide -- we see the elements of African/Black cultural aesthetics. The aesthetics of cool, forms of masquerade, apart playing and dancing, percussive movement, dances of derision/songs of allusion are just a few components of Black American dance. What is unique about the various forms of Black dance is that Black Americans have troped other dance forms to reflect Black culture, and they have been innovators in creating unique dance forms since the 17th century. Older choreographers like Deborah Allen, Kiki Shepard, Paula Abdul, and Jeffery Daniels are household names (or at least they are the ones I can think of right now) and newer artists like Ciara, Chris Brown, and Usher have all shown themselves as strong dancers who do more than implement the work of a choreographer; they help to innovate new dance forms. On Thursday, if we have time, we can view clips from Rize of clowing and krumping and Black Greek stepping, but I wanted to provide examples of tap, disco, modern, West African, and hip-hop to point to a diverse array of forms:
Thus, here are some examples of Black dance throughout time. Can you isolate the Black/African aesthetic?:
Soul Train Line/Disco:
Josephine Baker: Stage Dance
Ciara: Modern Hiphop Dance
Alvin Ailey: Classical Dance
Chris Brown (Sorry, in no way do I want to promote his alleged behavior, but I hope that we can review his dance style while still being critical of his alleged behavior. If you don't wish to view this, we can move on to the Omarion clip).
Omarion, Soul Train Awards 2005: Hiphop Modern Dance
Nicholas Brothers: Tap Dance
Urban Bush Women: Modern Dance
For Thursday:
Rize
Documentary Steppin:
http://www.folkstreams.net/film,134
This week we will discuss the traditions and innovations in Black dance. In a variety of forms, including ballet, tap, disco, stepping, hip-hop dance, folk/traditional African dance, modern dance, breaking, house dance -- to specific dances like the ring shout, cake walk, moonwalk, hully gully, and electric slide -- we see the elements of African/Black cultural aesthetics. The aesthetics of cool, forms of masquerade, apart playing and dancing, percussive movement, dances of derision/songs of allusion are just a few components of Black American dance. What is unique about the various forms of Black dance is that Black Americans have troped other dance forms to reflect Black culture, and they have been innovators in creating unique dance forms since the 17th century. Older choreographers like Deborah Allen, Kiki Shepard, Paula Abdul, and Jeffery Daniels are household names (or at least they are the ones I can think of right now) and newer artists like Ciara, Chris Brown, and Usher have all shown themselves as strong dancers who do more than implement the work of a choreographer; they help to innovate new dance forms. On Thursday, if we have time, we can view clips from Rize of clowing and krumping and Black Greek stepping, but I wanted to provide examples of tap, disco, modern, West African, and hip-hop to point to a diverse array of forms:
Thus, here are some examples of Black dance throughout time. Can you isolate the Black/African aesthetic?:
Soul Train Line/Disco:
Josephine Baker: Stage Dance
Ciara: Modern Hiphop Dance
Alvin Ailey: Classical Dance
Chris Brown (Sorry, in no way do I want to promote his alleged behavior, but I hope that we can review his dance style while still being critical of his alleged behavior. If you don't wish to view this, we can move on to the Omarion clip).
Omarion, Soul Train Awards 2005: Hiphop Modern Dance
Nicholas Brothers: Tap Dance
Urban Bush Women: Modern Dance
For Thursday:
Rize
Documentary Steppin:
http://www.folkstreams.net/film,134
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Public Enemy's "He Got Game" illustrates the typical qualities of hip hop. The track combines a rif from Buffalo Springstein, synthesized beats, and layering voices. The song holds a strong political message with religious roots. The lyrics address the social injustices of the time and illustrates the struggle to hold faith.
It is easy to relate to this song because everyone is aware of the social injustices in the United States. By connecting religion to the social problems, the song gives hope that the dilemmas will one day be resolved.
Week 8 Blog
Artist: T.I.
Song: Whatever you like
I had a bit of trouble thinking about one song to choose for this question because of how much hip hop has "evolved" over the years. I like T.I. as an artist, but I feel that many of his songs have strayed away from the origins of hip hop. This isn't always the case in his music; however, it's clear in this song that it is more representative of present day hip hop culture. Hip Hop used to be more about the message and it has sort of "evolved" into catchy beats that sometimes have literally nothing productive being said. I use the word evolved in quotes because generally evolution is to change something for the better and I think this is not the case here.
In this song T.I. is talking about his money and his ability to buy things for the right woman. This is representative of Hip Hop culture today with videos about Cristal and women and Escalades. This is not always the case, but it seems that more traditional hip hop is a lot more underground now. I feel this is a good example of hip hop culture because it is a pretty typical topic in many songs.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_w-r4rxmXDI
Song: Whatever you like
I had a bit of trouble thinking about one song to choose for this question because of how much hip hop has "evolved" over the years. I like T.I. as an artist, but I feel that many of his songs have strayed away from the origins of hip hop. This isn't always the case in his music; however, it's clear in this song that it is more representative of present day hip hop culture. Hip Hop used to be more about the message and it has sort of "evolved" into catchy beats that sometimes have literally nothing productive being said. I use the word evolved in quotes because generally evolution is to change something for the better and I think this is not the case here.
In this song T.I. is talking about his money and his ability to buy things for the right woman. This is representative of Hip Hop culture today with videos about Cristal and women and Escalades. This is not always the case, but it seems that more traditional hip hop is a lot more underground now. I feel this is a good example of hip hop culture because it is a pretty typical topic in many songs.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_w-r4rxmXDI
Homework Question #9
The genre I chose was hip-hip and the song I chose was ‘I Can’ by Nas. I think that this song is a great modern example of throwback hip hop songs that do have a catchy beat and interesting lyrics, but send important messages to listeners above all else. This song is very politically oriented. In it, Nas raps about the many issues that face young Black America today such as drug use, unprotected sex, and gang violence. The first two verses describe young men and women who had bright futures but lost them to one of the above issues. The last verse is equally controversial as Nas takes a different route and craftily describes slavery and how it turned “kings and queens into porch m…”
I love this song because the lyrics are so raw and gritty but it still sends a positive message. Nas raps this song as if he were talking to little boys and girls, telling them to steer clear of the dangers that are hindering our Brothers and Sisters and to work hard to become anything they want. Also, with the little kids singing in the background of the song, ‘I Can’ shows the softer but still political side of a very controversial rapper.
[Kids]
I know I can (I know I can)
Be what I wanna be (be what I wanna be)
If I work hard at it (If I work hard it)
I'll be where I wanna be (I'll be where I wanna be)
[Nas]
Be, B-Boys and girls, listen up
You can be anything in the world, in God we trust
An architect, doctor, maybe an actress
But nothing comes easy it takes much practice
Like, I met a woman who's becoming a star
She was very beautiful, leaving people in awe
Singing songs, Lina Horn, but the younger version
Hung with the wrong person
Gotta astrung when I heard when
Cocaine, sniffing up drugs, all in her nose
Coulda died, so young, no looks ugly and old
No fun cause when she reaches for hugs people hold they breath
Cause she smells of corrosion and death
Watch the company you keep and the crowd you bring
Cause they came to do drugs and you came to sing
So if you gonna be the best, I'ma tell you how
[Chorus - 2x (Nas and Kids)]
I know I can (I know I can)
Be what I wanna be (be what I wanna be)
If I work hard at it (If I work hard it)
I'll be where I wanna be (I'll be where I wanna be)
[Nas]
Be, B-Boys and girls, listen again
This is for grown looking girls who's only ten
The ones who watch videos and do what they see
As cute as can be, up in the club with fake ID
Careful, 'fore you meet a man with HIV
You can host the TV like Oprah Winfrey
Whatever you decide, be careful, some men be
Rapists, so act your age, don't pretend to be
Older than you are, give yourself time to grow
You thinking he can give you wealth, but so
Young boys, you can use a lot of help, you know
You thinkin life's all about smokin weed and ice
You don't wanna be my age and can't read and right
Begging different women for a place to sleep at night
Smart boys turn to men and do whatever they wish
If you believe you can achieve, then say it like this
[Chorus]
Save the music y'all, save the music y'all
Save the music y'all, save the music y'all
Save the music
[Nas]
Be, be, 'fore we came to this country
We were kings and queens, never porch monkeys
It was empires in Africa called Kush
Timbuktu, where every race came to get books
To learn from black teachers who taught Greeks and Romans
Asian Arabs and gave them gold when
Gold was converted to money it all changed
Money then became empowerment for Europeans
The Persian military invaded
They learned about the gold, the teachings and everything sacred
Africa was almost robbed naked
Slavery was money, so they began making slave ships
Egypt was the place that Alexander the Great went
He was so shocked at the mountains with black faces
Shot up they nose to impose what basically
Still goes on today, you see?
If the truth is told, the youth can grow
They learn to survive until they gain control
Nobody says you have to be gangstas, hoes
Read more learn more, change the globe
Ghetto children, do your thing
Hold your head up, little man, you're a king
Young Prince thats when you get your wedding ring
Your man is saying "She's my queen"
[Chorus]
I love this song because the lyrics are so raw and gritty but it still sends a positive message. Nas raps this song as if he were talking to little boys and girls, telling them to steer clear of the dangers that are hindering our Brothers and Sisters and to work hard to become anything they want. Also, with the little kids singing in the background of the song, ‘I Can’ shows the softer but still political side of a very controversial rapper.
[Kids]
I know I can (I know I can)
Be what I wanna be (be what I wanna be)
If I work hard at it (If I work hard it)
I'll be where I wanna be (I'll be where I wanna be)
[Nas]
Be, B-Boys and girls, listen up
You can be anything in the world, in God we trust
An architect, doctor, maybe an actress
But nothing comes easy it takes much practice
Like, I met a woman who's becoming a star
She was very beautiful, leaving people in awe
Singing songs, Lina Horn, but the younger version
Hung with the wrong person
Gotta astrung when I heard when
Cocaine, sniffing up drugs, all in her nose
Coulda died, so young, no looks ugly and old
No fun cause when she reaches for hugs people hold they breath
Cause she smells of corrosion and death
Watch the company you keep and the crowd you bring
Cause they came to do drugs and you came to sing
So if you gonna be the best, I'ma tell you how
[Chorus - 2x (Nas and Kids)]
I know I can (I know I can)
Be what I wanna be (be what I wanna be)
If I work hard at it (If I work hard it)
I'll be where I wanna be (I'll be where I wanna be)
[Nas]
Be, B-Boys and girls, listen again
This is for grown looking girls who's only ten
The ones who watch videos and do what they see
As cute as can be, up in the club with fake ID
Careful, 'fore you meet a man with HIV
You can host the TV like Oprah Winfrey
Whatever you decide, be careful, some men be
Rapists, so act your age, don't pretend to be
Older than you are, give yourself time to grow
You thinking he can give you wealth, but so
Young boys, you can use a lot of help, you know
You thinkin life's all about smokin weed and ice
You don't wanna be my age and can't read and right
Begging different women for a place to sleep at night
Smart boys turn to men and do whatever they wish
If you believe you can achieve, then say it like this
[Chorus]
Save the music y'all, save the music y'all
Save the music y'all, save the music y'all
Save the music
[Nas]
Be, be, 'fore we came to this country
We were kings and queens, never porch monkeys
It was empires in Africa called Kush
Timbuktu, where every race came to get books
To learn from black teachers who taught Greeks and Romans
Asian Arabs and gave them gold when
Gold was converted to money it all changed
Money then became empowerment for Europeans
The Persian military invaded
They learned about the gold, the teachings and everything sacred
Africa was almost robbed naked
Slavery was money, so they began making slave ships
Egypt was the place that Alexander the Great went
He was so shocked at the mountains with black faces
Shot up they nose to impose what basically
Still goes on today, you see?
If the truth is told, the youth can grow
They learn to survive until they gain control
Nobody says you have to be gangstas, hoes
Read more learn more, change the globe
Ghetto children, do your thing
Hold your head up, little man, you're a king
Young Prince thats when you get your wedding ring
Your man is saying "She's my queen"
[Chorus]
Blog Post #10
I chose Come Close, by Common, because I think it portrays Black culture on multiple levels. Both through the lyrics and in the music video, which accompanies the song, black culture is displayed through language and style. The song also discusses various aspects of black life, such as love, politics (when Common talks about changing the world), and popular culture. I've also really enjoyed this song because of it's setting (a man proposing to a woman on her front lawn). But when listening to the lyrics, there are a lot of other aspects to the song which I enjoy. Another thing that really stood out to me about Black culture in this song is the appearance of the characters in the music. Common typically has a type of "Afrocentric" style, and like him, the woman in the video does as well. I really like the way she is represented in particular, because she shows that beauty can be something natural and something black.
Here are the lyrics:
"Come Close"
by Common
(feat. Mary J. Blige)
[Intro]
[Common:] It's just a fly love song, what
[Mary J:] Mmmmm
[Common:] It's just a fly love song, what
[Verse: Common]
Are we living in a dream world?
Are your eyes still green girl?
I know your sick and tired of arguing
But you can't keep it bottled in
Jealousy, we got to swallow it
Your heart and mind baby follow it
Smile, happiness you could model it
And when you feel opposite
I just want you to know
Your whole being is beautiful
Im going to do the best I can do
Cause i'm the best when i'm with you
[Chorus: Mary J. Blige]
Come close to me baby
Let your love hold you
I know this world is crazy
What's it without you
[Verse: Common]
Put down your bags love
I know in the past love
Has been sort of hard in you
But I see the God in you
I just want to nurture it
Though this love may hurt a bit
We dealing wit this water love
You even give my daughter love
I want to build a tribe wit you
Protect and provide for you
Truth is I can't hide from you
The pimp in me
May have to die with you
[Chorus]
[Bridge]
I know what you're thinking, you're on my mind
You're right, you're right, you're right
You promise so fast you just might take flight
Hope your not tired, tonight, tonight
[Verse: Common]
You help me to discovery me
I just want you to put trust in me
I kind of laugh when you cuss at me
The aftermath is you touching me
It's destiny to we connected girl
You and i we can affect the world
I'm tired of the fast lane
I want you to have my last name
[Chorus]
[Bridge (2x)]
Here are the lyrics:
"Come Close"
by Common
(feat. Mary J. Blige)
[Intro]
[Common:] It's just a fly love song, what
[Mary J:] Mmmmm
[Common:] It's just a fly love song, what
[Verse: Common]
Are we living in a dream world?
Are your eyes still green girl?
I know your sick and tired of arguing
But you can't keep it bottled in
Jealousy, we got to swallow it
Your heart and mind baby follow it
Smile, happiness you could model it
And when you feel opposite
I just want you to know
Your whole being is beautiful
Im going to do the best I can do
Cause i'm the best when i'm with you
[Chorus: Mary J. Blige]
Come close to me baby
Let your love hold you
I know this world is crazy
What's it without you
[Verse: Common]
Put down your bags love
I know in the past love
Has been sort of hard in you
But I see the God in you
I just want to nurture it
Though this love may hurt a bit
We dealing wit this water love
You even give my daughter love
I want to build a tribe wit you
Protect and provide for you
Truth is I can't hide from you
The pimp in me
May have to die with you
[Chorus]
[Bridge]
I know what you're thinking, you're on my mind
You're right, you're right, you're right
You promise so fast you just might take flight
Hope your not tired, tonight, tonight
[Verse: Common]
You help me to discovery me
I just want you to put trust in me
I kind of laugh when you cuss at me
The aftermath is you touching me
It's destiny to we connected girl
You and i we can affect the world
I'm tired of the fast lane
I want you to have my last name
[Chorus]
[Bridge (2x)]
Hip Hop Saved My Life
This is probably one of my favorite songs of all time. Hip-Hop Saved My Life is more of a story that describes the life and times of a struggling MC. The reason I picked this song is that I think shows the idea of automusicography well. The story Lupe is telling is very personal, yet it is probably universal among young African Americans aspiring to become a successful hip-hop artist. The first couple of lines outline the common struggle and motive for these young artists.
He said 'I write what I see'
Write to make it right
Don't like where I be
I like to make it like
The sights on tv
Quite the great life
So nice and easy
See now you can still die from that
But it's better than not
being alive from straps
Hip-Hop Saved My Life on Youtube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=6bj2_ZmwCoU
He said 'I write what I see'
Write to make it right
Don't like where I be
I like to make it like
The sights on tv
Quite the great life
So nice and easy
See now you can still die from that
But it's better than not
being alive from straps
Hip-Hop Saved My Life on Youtube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=6bj2_ZmwCoU
"Imagine Me" by Kirk Franklin
I chose "Imagine Me," a gospel song by Kirk Franklin because the words are very powerful, uplifting and full of hope. I remember the first time I heard the song and I just had to find out what it was called so I could buy it from Itunes. I chose this song because it's about forgiving those who have done you wrong, putting all of your faith into God and closing that chapter in your life and not dwelling on it. It is a very inspirational song that I think shows how in Black culture religion is very important because when you don't have anyone to turn to or when people in your life have done your wrong, believing in God and putting all your trust in him will allow you to be free. On a account of the struggles African Americans have been through, having songs of hope can pull them through and allow them and anyone else who listens to gospel see that there are going to be brighter days.
http://www.jango.com/music/Kirk+Franklin?l=0
http://www.jango.com/music/Kirk+Franklin?l=0
Blog 10 - song
The song I chose was "Joyful, Joyful" from Sister Act II by Lauryn Hill. I chose this song because it was really popular back in middle school and I really like it personally. I also think it exemplifies different genres through the change in style throughout the song. It begins with a solo by Lauryn Hill that one could consider R&B with the gentleness in her tone and the vocal runs she incorporates into the lyrics. It switches to a Gospel style with everyone joining in. This is followed by a rap portion. Here, the structure of the lyrics change, adding phrases such as "check the rhyme" in addition to the percussive nature the music adapts. You've even got a call and response when they sing "Who's down with G-O-D? Yeah, you know me". These are just some examples of how this song demonstrates multiple aspects of Black culture. It's not done much with the lyrics, other than the show of faith, but the stylistic elements show the diversity of black culture and music in particular.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Blog: Favorite Song
Nas- Hero
Where the Fcuk ya'll at
haahaa
yeah
lets go, get money
Chain gleaming
Switching lanes
Two-seating
Hate him or love him
For the same reason [Fresh]
Can't leave it
The games needs him
Plus the people need someone to believe in [Yes]
So in God's Son we trust'
Cause they know I'm gonna give 'em what they want
They looking for . . . a hero
I guess that makes me . . . a hero
Another chapter of the cleanest rapper
Distinguished gentlemen
Crooks and castle on his back
Maybach-er, exotic lady eye-catcher
Holla at'cha, call me the chiropractor
Working like Muay Thai class
Get perspire out ya
And of course I've been the boss since back when
Rocking D Boy, Fila, velour in 190 black Benz
Now they shut down the stores when I'm shopping
Used to be train robbing, face covered in stocking
I'm him
Chain gleaming
Switching lanes
Two-seating
Hate him or love him
For the same reason
Can't leave it
The games needs him
Plus the people need someone to believe in
So in God's Son we trust'
Cause they know I'm gonna give 'em what they want
They looking for . . . a hero
I guess that makes me . . . a hero
Rubber-grip-holder, reloader
Come at me I'ma rip your soliders in half
Silverback ape, nickle-plated mag
Young, rich, and flashyYoung, bitch, I'm nasty
All black clothes til ice lay on me so classy
And every time I close my lids
I can still see the borough, I can still see the Bridge
I can still see the dreams that my niggas ain't never lived to see
Tell them angels open the door for me
From nine berettas and moving raw
To chilling in wine cellars
Sticks and humidors
That's what I call mature
That's what I call a g
That's what I call a pimp
That's what I call a gangsta
To the fullest, shit
I try to make more cream
By every September 14th, that's my dream
So I can be more clean, as I grow yearly
I can see things more clearly
That's why they fear me
Chain gleaming
Switching lanes
Two-seating
Hate him or love him
For the same reason
Can't leave it
The games needs him
Plus the people need someone to believe in
So in God's Son we trust'
Cause they know I'm gonna give 'em what they want
They looking for . . . a hero
I guess that makes me . . . a hero
This universal apartheid
I'm hog-tied, the corporate side
Blocking y'all from going to stores and buying it
First L.A. and Doug Morris was riding wit it
But Newsweek article startled big wigs
They said, Nas, why is he trying it?
My lawyers only see the Billboard charts as winning
Forgetting - Nas the only true rebel since the beginning
Still in musical prison, in jail for the flow
Try telling Bob Dylan, Bruce, or Billy Joel
They can't sing what's in their soul
So untitled it is
I never change nothin'
But people remember this
If Nas can't say it, think about these talented kids
With new ideas being told what they can and can't spit
I can't sit and watch it
So, sht, I'ma drop it
Like it or not
You ain't gotta cop it
I'm a hustler in the studio
Cups of Don Julio
No matter what the CD called
I'm unbeatable, y'all
Lets go!
This has been one of my favorite songs to listen to before my games. The motivational lyrics by Nas really inspire and get the message across of being your own person and being motivated enough to not let anything stand in the way of what you're trying to accomplish. Nas frequently brings in examples of black culture such as the "swag" and also the dream of living large, cars, clothes, money, ect. He expresses his ways of going against the grain and makes examples out of white artists such as bob dylan and billy joel whom he says were caged from saying what they wanted to but he will not be.
Where the Fcuk ya'll at
haahaa
yeah
lets go, get money
Chain gleaming
Switching lanes
Two-seating
Hate him or love him
For the same reason [Fresh]
Can't leave it
The games needs him
Plus the people need someone to believe in [Yes]
So in God's Son we trust'
Cause they know I'm gonna give 'em what they want
They looking for . . . a hero
I guess that makes me . . . a hero
Another chapter of the cleanest rapper
Distinguished gentlemen
Crooks and castle on his back
Maybach-er, exotic lady eye-catcher
Holla at'cha, call me the chiropractor
Working like Muay Thai class
Get perspire out ya
And of course I've been the boss since back when
Rocking D Boy, Fila, velour in 190 black Benz
Now they shut down the stores when I'm shopping
Used to be train robbing, face covered in stocking
I'm him
Chain gleaming
Switching lanes
Two-seating
Hate him or love him
For the same reason
Can't leave it
The games needs him
Plus the people need someone to believe in
So in God's Son we trust'
Cause they know I'm gonna give 'em what they want
They looking for . . . a hero
I guess that makes me . . . a hero
Rubber-grip-holder, reloader
Come at me I'ma rip your soliders in half
Silverback ape, nickle-plated mag
Young, rich, and flashyYoung, bitch, I'm nasty
All black clothes til ice lay on me so classy
And every time I close my lids
I can still see the borough, I can still see the Bridge
I can still see the dreams that my niggas ain't never lived to see
Tell them angels open the door for me
From nine berettas and moving raw
To chilling in wine cellars
Sticks and humidors
That's what I call mature
That's what I call a g
That's what I call a pimp
That's what I call a gangsta
To the fullest, shit
I try to make more cream
By every September 14th, that's my dream
So I can be more clean, as I grow yearly
I can see things more clearly
That's why they fear me
Chain gleaming
Switching lanes
Two-seating
Hate him or love him
For the same reason
Can't leave it
The games needs him
Plus the people need someone to believe in
So in God's Son we trust'
Cause they know I'm gonna give 'em what they want
They looking for . . . a hero
I guess that makes me . . . a hero
This universal apartheid
I'm hog-tied, the corporate side
Blocking y'all from going to stores and buying it
First L.A. and Doug Morris was riding wit it
But Newsweek article startled big wigs
They said, Nas, why is he trying it?
My lawyers only see the Billboard charts as winning
Forgetting - Nas the only true rebel since the beginning
Still in musical prison, in jail for the flow
Try telling Bob Dylan, Bruce, or Billy Joel
They can't sing what's in their soul
So untitled it is
I never change nothin'
But people remember this
If Nas can't say it, think about these talented kids
With new ideas being told what they can and can't spit
I can't sit and watch it
So, sht, I'ma drop it
Like it or not
You ain't gotta cop it
I'm a hustler in the studio
Cups of Don Julio
No matter what the CD called
I'm unbeatable, y'all
Lets go!
This has been one of my favorite songs to listen to before my games. The motivational lyrics by Nas really inspire and get the message across of being your own person and being motivated enough to not let anything stand in the way of what you're trying to accomplish. Nas frequently brings in examples of black culture such as the "swag" and also the dream of living large, cars, clothes, money, ect. He expresses his ways of going against the grain and makes examples out of white artists such as bob dylan and billy joel whom he says were caged from saying what they wanted to but he will not be.
Blog: Favorite Song
Lyrics:http://www.lyricstop.com/i/iamnotmyhair-india.arie.html
Video:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M5y9A4DKmjM
[Chorus]
I am not my hair
I am not this skin
I am not your expectations no no
I am not my hair
I ma not this skin
I am a soul that lives within
[Talking:]
What'd she do to her hair? I don't know it look crazy
I like it. I might do that.
Umm I wouldn't go that far. I know .. ha ha ha ha
[Verse 2]
Good hair means curls and waves
Bad hair means you look like a slave
At the turn of the century
Its time for us to redefine who we be
You can shave it off
Like a South African beauty
Or get in on lock
Like Bob Marley
You can rock it straight
Like Oprah Winfrey
If its not what's on your head
Its what's underneath and say HEY....
I have to say that I am a big fan of India Arie because does not just write a whole lot of none sense songs like most artists do today. She sings about real things; her life, who she is, what the world is like ad the people in it. This song is about her and her style and how her hair does not define who she is. It is what is inside her that makes her who she is. In the video she comes out with many different hair styles and different outfits that seem like they would match the hair. The video is very simple and energetic at the same time. The layout of this video makes the message very clear and understanding.
I feel that this relates to our discussion of Black culture because we did talk a little bit about how style has been a big influence on some of the popular artists out there. A lot of artists do have that style "swag" that people like to follow which makes them bigger in the industry. It's almost like if you don't have that look that people like then you will not be liked.
Video:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M5y9A4DKmjM
[Chorus]
I am not my hair
I am not this skin
I am not your expectations no no
I am not my hair
I ma not this skin
I am a soul that lives within
[Talking:]
What'd she do to her hair? I don't know it look crazy
I like it. I might do that.
Umm I wouldn't go that far. I know .. ha ha ha ha
[Verse 2]
Good hair means curls and waves
Bad hair means you look like a slave
At the turn of the century
Its time for us to redefine who we be
You can shave it off
Like a South African beauty
Or get in on lock
Like Bob Marley
You can rock it straight
Like Oprah Winfrey
If its not what's on your head
Its what's underneath and say HEY....
I have to say that I am a big fan of India Arie because does not just write a whole lot of none sense songs like most artists do today. She sings about real things; her life, who she is, what the world is like ad the people in it. This song is about her and her style and how her hair does not define who she is. It is what is inside her that makes her who she is. In the video she comes out with many different hair styles and different outfits that seem like they would match the hair. The video is very simple and energetic at the same time. The layout of this video makes the message very clear and understanding.
I feel that this relates to our discussion of Black culture because we did talk a little bit about how style has been a big influence on some of the popular artists out there. A lot of artists do have that style "swag" that people like to follow which makes them bigger in the industry. It's almost like if you don't have that look that people like then you will not be liked.
Song: Classic
Artists: Kanye West, Nas, KRS-One, Rakim, DJ Premier
[Rakim:]
Is y’all ready for Twenty-0-7, it’s now another drought
Everyone’s a killer, wow we buggin out
Since 86 showin the crowd what I’m about
And they still want to know when the album comin’ out
Ask the teenagers, O’Gs and Ask the kids
What they definition of Classic is
Timeless, cause age don’t count in the booth
And your flow stays submerged in the fountain of youth
And no doubt the truth I’m off the meters
Everybody co-signing even non-believers
I came in the door, became one of y’alls leaders
In the fresh pair of Air Force One sneakers
Uptown we call ‘em uppies when they on divas
Prolly worn when KRS One teaches
Nas, made you look, before the haters
I bet you Kan had ‘em on when he walked with Jesus
This is classic
Classic, I'm better than I've ever been
Timeless,
I'm everywhere you've never been and better than I ever been
Classic
I'm better than I've ever been
Timeless,
[Kanye West:]
Can’t buy this, superflyness, like a shyness, your highness
iss performin’, look how long the line is
That’s what happens when you make shit that’s timeless
That’s what happens these rappers is the pioneers
What do it take to be a legend like Nas is?
That’s so novice, I’m so polished, I got a right to be a little bit snobbish
I did a little bit of college, semesters it took 2 like Rob Base
To let me figure out this wasn’t my place, the beats slow til’ you listen to my pace
Cuz I be killin’ shit, but that’s evident, and y’all feelin’ it, but I expected it
If it’s classic it’s gonna last forever than I’m everywhere you never been and better than I ever been
Classic, I'm better than I've ever been
Timeless,
I'm everywhere you've never been and better than I ever been
Classic
I'm better than I've ever been
Timeless,
[Nas:]
Perseverance, see the fake hustler rapper to them it hurts to hear this
O you went platinum – yeah that’s nice, now let me see you do the same thing twice
New times, 4 times, then been a couple of more times, please your amateur night is show time
It’s one life to live so live it the best you can, the world could use one less man
Not enough air, not enough car factories to manufacture new vehicles sedans and vans
When they do make the whip you like ya chips ain’t right, by the time you could afford it the car ain’t important
In the streets silent, it’s just I and - cops keep firin’ in my environment
Leavin’ your slum when they drive home far from the hood brothers they eager to jump on
I like to be the wall that they post up on, I like to see them fall, guilty for doing wrong
I’m classic like the Air Ones, the Hustler shoe, that’s what I’m accustomed to
Classic, I'm better than I've ever been
Timeless,
I'm everywhere you've never been and better than I ever been
Classic
I'm better than I've ever been
Timeless,
[KRS One:]
How many y’all got "Criminal Minded" you you you y’all don’t be blinded
Me I got no jewels on my neck, why – I don’t need ‘em I got your respect
KRS One 20 years I rock I do it for JMJ and Scott LaRock – this hip hop
And we’s a nation, don’t you want to hear more KRS on your radio station?
Instead of broadcasting how we smokin’ trees, on the radio we need to hear more local MC’s
Where you at? Come on where you at? This is the difference between MC’ing and rap
Rappers spit rhymes that are mostly illegal, MC’s spit rhymes to uplift they people
Peace, love, unity, and Havin’ fun, these are the lyrics of KRS One
This is one of my favorite hip hop songs of recent times because it includes numerous legends of hip hop. While Kanye West isn't yet a legend like KRS-One or Rakim, and has more of a pop-ish voice, he's still one of the must influential artists at this time. This song was originally produced for Nike's 25th Anniversary of their Air Force 1 line in 2007, which is why they are mentioned numerous times throughout the song. The song references parts of the history of hip hop, with lines tying to Criminal Minded, Jam Master Jay, and Scott LaRock. At the same time, it discusses the hip hop and its relation to Black culture. Each artist brought something different to the song, which makes the song so great.
Artists: Kanye West, Nas, KRS-One, Rakim, DJ Premier
[Rakim:]
Is y’all ready for Twenty-0-7, it’s now another drought
Everyone’s a killer, wow we buggin out
Since 86 showin the crowd what I’m about
And they still want to know when the album comin’ out
Ask the teenagers, O’Gs and Ask the kids
What they definition of Classic is
Timeless, cause age don’t count in the booth
And your flow stays submerged in the fountain of youth
And no doubt the truth I’m off the meters
Everybody co-signing even non-believers
I came in the door, became one of y’alls leaders
In the fresh pair of Air Force One sneakers
Uptown we call ‘em uppies when they on divas
Prolly worn when KRS One teaches
Nas, made you look, before the haters
I bet you Kan had ‘em on when he walked with Jesus
This is classic
Classic, I'm better than I've ever been
Timeless,
I'm everywhere you've never been and better than I ever been
Classic
I'm better than I've ever been
Timeless,
[Kanye West:]
Can’t buy this, superflyness, like a shyness, your highness
iss performin’, look how long the line is
That’s what happens when you make shit that’s timeless
That’s what happens these rappers is the pioneers
What do it take to be a legend like Nas is?
That’s so novice, I’m so polished, I got a right to be a little bit snobbish
I did a little bit of college, semesters it took 2 like Rob Base
To let me figure out this wasn’t my place, the beats slow til’ you listen to my pace
Cuz I be killin’ shit, but that’s evident, and y’all feelin’ it, but I expected it
If it’s classic it’s gonna last forever than I’m everywhere you never been and better than I ever been
Classic, I'm better than I've ever been
Timeless,
I'm everywhere you've never been and better than I ever been
Classic
I'm better than I've ever been
Timeless,
[Nas:]
Perseverance, see the fake hustler rapper to them it hurts to hear this
O you went platinum – yeah that’s nice, now let me see you do the same thing twice
New times, 4 times, then been a couple of more times, please your amateur night is show time
It’s one life to live so live it the best you can, the world could use one less man
Not enough air, not enough car factories to manufacture new vehicles sedans and vans
When they do make the whip you like ya chips ain’t right, by the time you could afford it the car ain’t important
In the streets silent, it’s just I and - cops keep firin’ in my environment
Leavin’ your slum when they drive home far from the hood brothers they eager to jump on
I like to be the wall that they post up on, I like to see them fall, guilty for doing wrong
I’m classic like the Air Ones, the Hustler shoe, that’s what I’m accustomed to
Classic, I'm better than I've ever been
Timeless,
I'm everywhere you've never been and better than I ever been
Classic
I'm better than I've ever been
Timeless,
[KRS One:]
How many y’all got "Criminal Minded" you you you y’all don’t be blinded
Me I got no jewels on my neck, why – I don’t need ‘em I got your respect
KRS One 20 years I rock I do it for JMJ and Scott LaRock – this hip hop
And we’s a nation, don’t you want to hear more KRS on your radio station?
Instead of broadcasting how we smokin’ trees, on the radio we need to hear more local MC’s
Where you at? Come on where you at? This is the difference between MC’ing and rap
Rappers spit rhymes that are mostly illegal, MC’s spit rhymes to uplift they people
Peace, love, unity, and Havin’ fun, these are the lyrics of KRS One
This is one of my favorite hip hop songs of recent times because it includes numerous legends of hip hop. While Kanye West isn't yet a legend like KRS-One or Rakim, and has more of a pop-ish voice, he's still one of the must influential artists at this time. This song was originally produced for Nike's 25th Anniversary of their Air Force 1 line in 2007, which is why they are mentioned numerous times throughout the song. The song references parts of the history of hip hop, with lines tying to Criminal Minded, Jam Master Jay, and Scott LaRock. At the same time, it discusses the hip hop and its relation to Black culture. Each artist brought something different to the song, which makes the song so great.
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